WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder boxed in one of the biggest matches in the sport last year when he faced Tyson Fury. He returns to the ring Saturday night against mandatory challenger Dominic Breazeale, his first match after the famed bout between him and Fury. During a media workout Tuesday, Wilder spoke of lessons learned in that match that he will be taking into Saturday night when he and Breazeale face-off in Barclay’s Center in Brooklyn, New York.
Wilder told media that, “I learned from the Tyson Fury fight to stay patient.” Wilder was likely referring to the twelfth round knockdown that Fury was able to return from. The match between he and Fury went to a split decision draw, having both men retain their titles. “It was my moment and my time. I wanted to put on a great show and deliver the knockout,” Wilder said while reflecting on the match. “I rushed but Fury had to be perfect for 12 rounds, I just had to be perfect for two seconds.”
As far as Breazeale goes, Wilder said that his challenger called him out and that he, “is going to get knocked out in dramatic fashion on Saturday, I can’t wait.” Wilder has referred to Breazeale and mandatory challengers as a “flies” both online and when addressing the media in Brooklyn.
“He’s like a fly in my ear. I’m going to get him out of there in a fashion no one has ever seen.”
Deontay Wilder
Wilder also said he is passionate about boxing and everything he does in the sport. Having the match in Brooklyn makes it, that much more interesting to Wilder. “I love coming to Brooklyn,” Wilder said about the event’s location. “The people here have adopted me. I’ve had some of my most dramatic knockouts here at Barclays Center. I’m looking forward to adding another one to my resume Saturday night.”
Should Wilder defend against Breazeale Saturday night it will be his ninth title defense. The event airs on Showtime 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
Do you think Wilder will finish Breazeale early?
